HSUS Names Kitty Block as New CEO

The seasoned animal advocate and former president of Humane Society International promises to create a safe work environment to strengthen the organization's efforts.

This week, animal protection organization The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) named Kitty Block as its acting president and CEO. Block appeared in a video in which she explained how she will continue the fight for animal protection, pointing to the efforts she will prioritize in her new role. “The HSUS will remain the leader in fighting for all animals and will do so in a way that affirms these values,” Block said. “First, we will provide a safe and secure workplace. Second, we will operate with transparency and openness. Third, we will be worthy of your trust. And finally, the compassion we seek in the world will be the foundation of everything we do and every interaction we have." Block joined HSUS in 1992 as an investigator and most recently served as the president of Humane Society International—the international arm of HSUS—where she led a number of impactful campaigns across the world, including the organization’s campaign to end the dog-meat trade in Asia. “I’ve spent more than 25 years waging campaigns to fight animal cruelty, and the mission to protect animals remains as critical as ever," Block said. "Animals will continue to rely on us and on you." Block replaces former CEO Wayne Pacelle after he resigned last week amid sexual harassment allegations.